Outside of school, religious establishments, the movie theaters, sporting events, scouting, arts and crafts lessons, and cultural activities provided residents with respite from the monotony of camp life. In particular, scouting was very popular with youth, many of whom had participated in the organization before incarceration. Although camp administration refused to sponsor Japanese activities, the residents established cultural clubs and organized celebrations such as the Obon festival.  In the winter, ice skating was popular and during the warmer months swimming in the pond helped to cool down and provide an escape from the reality of being confined to camp.